Arsenal previously chased Edin Dzeko in 2010 but he was deemed out of the club's price range

Arsenal’s need for a new striker is well documented to ease some of the pressure on Robin Van Persie and they may turn their attentions to Eden Dzeko again in the summer.

Leaving aside the Dutchman, it is defender Thomas Vermaelen that is Arsenal’s second top scorer in the Premier League with just five goals.

A more regular supply of goals is needed from other outlets and Arsenal’s lack of firepower was evident in the latter stages of their Champions League exit to AC Milan, when options from the bench were sparse.

Lukas Podolski looks to have been signed from Cologne, but both clubs are currently keeping quiet on the situation in order to prevent it affecting the home straight of the current campaign.

But Podolski is not particularly a true centre forward and may be utilised by Arsenal in a wider position.

Therefore, further reinforcements could be required and Edin Dzeko may prove a great addition from Manchester City.

Dzeko has managed 13 Premier League goals for Manchester City from just 14 starts and 11 substitute appearances, but often plays second fiddle behind Sergio Aguero and Mario Balotelli.

Meanwhile, the return of Carlos Tevez is expected to push him further down Roberto Mancini’s pecking order.

Wolfsburg’s price tag put Arsenal off Dzeko in January 2010 and although he will cost a similar amount now, Arsene Wenger may be more willing to part with a figure close to the £20m barrier.

However, Arsenal may have to move quickly as Real Madrid are also monitoring the Bosnian forward and could offer Manchester City a tempting swap deal involving Gonzalo Higuain.

The good news for Arsenal is that if a lack of first-team football is frustrating Dzeko at Manchester City, he would arguably find himself in a similar position at Real Madrid behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.

Finishing in the top four this season would certainly help Arsenal’s chances of signing players of the calibre of Dzeko and after a run of five straight victories in all competitions, this can now be backed at 1/7.

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Craig has written for Ladbrokes since the 2010 World Cup, having previously gained a Media & Sports Journalism degree and contributed to publications including the Racing Post. His main areas of interest are horse racing and UFC, but he is also an avid X Factor gambler and likes nothing more than indulging in a spot of Hip Hop Karaoke.